Chapter 328

Shirley's words, sharp and piercing, were automatically translated into various languages and transmitted to the guests' earpieces. Having something stolen was a significant event, especially jewelry. While Shirley's piece wasn't the most expensive, it was rare compared to ordinary market jewels.

David took the matter seriously. He descended from the stage, approached Shirley, and asked, "Ms. Jones, what happened? Was your jewelry stolen?"

The theft occurring during the event deeply upset Shirley. "This is outrageous! We must catch the thief," she exclaimed, glancing at Cynthia.

Cynthia sat on a couch, her purse beside her. Shirley, who had been subtly observing Cynthia, felt a surge of satisfaction. When Cynthia went to the restroom, Shirley followed.

Taking advantage of Cynthia leaving her purse unattended, Shirley slipped the rose brooch into a hidden compartment. Even a cursory inspection wouldn't reveal it.

Shirley watched as Cynthia returned, even pausing to touch up her makeup, completely unaware. Feeling satisfied, Shirley then loudly announced that her jewelry had been stolen.

David immediately summoned security. While Shirley continued her commotion, David reassured her, saying, "Ms. Jones, please be assured. No one has entered or exited the venue since the auction began. If your jewelry is missing, it's still here."

Shirley, seemingly assertive, declared, "I spent $16 million on that jewelry, and it was stolen right under your noses! You cannot deny your responsibility. Allowing a thief inside highlights your weak security. I'm questioning QUEEN's credibility. Who would attend your events if guests' property isn't safeguarded?"

Shirley aimed to create maximum disruption, hoping to publicly embarrass Cynthia and Jonathan.

David frowned at Shirley's unreasonable behavior. Just then, Simon arrived.

David respectfully greeted him, "Mr. Wright." Simon approached, glanced at Shirley, and coldly asked, "What's happening here?"

Shirley's heart skipped a beat. Simon's charm and authority were captivating. She briefly fantasized about his gentleness towards her. This unexpected attention was a pleasant surprise.

Before David could respond, Shirley confidently stated, "Mr. Wright, my $16 million jewel was stolen. Aren't you responsible? You must find the thief today, or I won't rest."

Simon's gaze was icy. He replied, "Ms. Jones, if your jewelry was stolen, we'll catch the thief and provide an explanation. But if you fabricated this accusation, then you must explain yourself."

Shirley, though inwardly shaken, remained composed. "Mr. Wright, do you think I'd hide my own jewelry to falsely accuse you all? My jewelry was stolen, and the thief is among us. Let's search everyone."

This suggestion was met with frustration and disdain. Even Whitney seemed to think Shirley was naive. The attendees were high-profile individuals who would not consent to a body search.

Objections immediately arose. One person said, "Ms. Jones, you bought the least valuable piece. Who would steal it?" Another, a royal heir, indignantly protested the suggestion of a body search. Others questioned Shirley's presence at the event. Someone pointed out that Whitney had brought her.

Though spoken in various languages, the comments were translated into Shirley's earpiece. She realized her mistake; the search suggestion was insulting. She quickly corrected herself, "I'm not suspecting everyone. I think one person might be the thief."

Simon's gaze intensified. "Ms. Jones, do you have someone in mind?"

This was Shirley's moment. She pointed at Cynthia. "It's her, Cynthia!"

All eyes turned to Cynthia. Jonathan's face hardened. He protectively put his arm around Cynthia and asked, "Shirley, what are you doing?"

Shirley retorted, "This jewel isn't valuable, but only Cynthia and I bid on it. Everyone saw how much she wanted it. Now it's gone, so it must be Cynthia, unable to bear losing, who took it."

Shirley aggressively approached Cynthia. "Cynthia, dare you let everyone see your bag? If the brooch isn't there, I'll apologize. But if it is, you're the thief."

Jonathan saw through Shirley's ploy—the "thief shouting 'catch the thief'" tactic. He wouldn't let her succeed. He stepped forward, stating coldly, "Shirley, you have no right to search my wife's bag, and I won't allow you to slander her. If you claim she's a thief, provide evidence instead of making her prove her innocence after being defamed."